Happy Faces - Susan Mcelwey

January 19, 1989

Susan McElwey, a kindergarten teacher at Tucker-Capps Elementary School, says society is increasingly placing too much pressure on toay's youth."The world itself is moving too fast. We have too high expectations of our kids."

Thus, McElwey, who lives in York County with her family, tries to make it easier for her students by making learning an enjoyable experience for all. "I structure my teaching situation so that they're having fun and learning at the same time," she says. "You learn more when you're happy." She says being both a parent and a teacher gives her an enhanced perspective on "how to deal with kids."

McElwey often goes beyond what some believe is normally expected of a teacher. If a child is having difficulty learning, McElwey takes action to correct it. She calls the parents and sets meetings to discuss with them how to assist the child with his or her development.

Family: Husband, David; two daughters, Bonnie, 17, and Sally, 14.

Hometown: Minneapolis.

Motto: Reach out and take full advantage of all opportunities that are given to me.

What motivates you: As a teacher, when I see the children in the fall after they've left me in the summer, seeing the enormous growth they've made.

Greatest feat: Raising two lovely daughters - they're good kids with good heads on their shoulders - and having a great marriage and a rewarding teaching career.

Favorite cause: Battered women. Working with little kids, you see the results of that. When the United Way comes (for donations), that's where I like to see my money go.

Worst fear: Not being able to continue what I'm doing now.

Bad habit: Working too hard. I spend too many hours doing too much.

Hobbies: I like to do a lot of craft activities - Christmas ornaments and handmade gifts. I also enjoy cooking and reading.